A step towards a more responsible future

Every year, around 20 billion pairs of shoes are produced worldwide. An impressive number that raises an important question: What happens to everything left behind?

At Koel, we believe that every step matters. And that includes the steps we take towards reducing our environmental impact.

That's why, together with our partner Bolflex, we've developed a project that gives production leftovers a second life, transforming leather and rubber waste into new materials and new possibilities.

Giving waste a second life

What some see as waste, we see as an opportunity.

It all starts with a careful sorting process. Leather leftovers are separated by color, while rubber scraps and soles are collected and prepared to begin their transformation.

Once transferred to our partner Bolflex, these materials enter a new production cycle, where what was once discarded becomes part of something new.

Because sometimes, moving forward means finding a new purpose for what we already have.

From rubber waste to colorful soles

One of the most exciting results of this project can be found right beneath our feet.

Rubber leftovers are shredded into small, carefully sized granules that can be reintroduced into the production of new soles.

This process is what gives Koel's colorful recycled soles their unique appearance. Each one reflects a different approach to production, where creativity and resourcefulness come together to reduce waste.

And the best part? By choosing models like Francie Suede Eco; Francie Cloud; Fago Suede; Fea Suede Eco; Izzie Eco; Raxo Suede or Roku Suede, all with recycled soles, our community becomes part of this journey towards a more circular production system.

A new purpose for leather

Leather follows a different path. Its transformation requires more time, attention, and care. After being shredded and processed, leather leftovers can be turned into raw material once again.

These recovered materials are then incorporated into the midsoles of our sandals, bringing them back into the production process.

It's another way of closing the loop, making better use of existing resources and reducing the amount of material left behind.

Small steps, bigger purpose

We know that every product we create leaves an environmental footprint. And we believe that acknowledging this responsibility is an essential part of doing better.

This project has already helped us reduce waste from our production, but our journey doesn't end here. We're constantly looking for ways to improve, rethink our processes, and make more conscious choices.

We know we can't change the world on our own. But we do believe that small actions, when taken with purpose, can make a meaningful difference. Because at Koel, we believe sustainability begins exactly where waste ends!